News

Another Washington City Council Approves Plastic Bag Ban!

Seven cities in Washington already have plastic bag bans in place. Now, Shoreline, Washington passed a plastic carryout bag ban on Monday. The ban passed 5-1. It will take effect on February 1, 2014.

On April 29, the City Council voted to prohibit plastic carryout bags at all retail locations in Shoreline. The action is aimed at reducing waste and litter and protecting Shoreline’s environment.

The city staff as well as council members discussed the ban, during which they cited recommendations by King County Solid Waste to move forward with it. Also noted were community polls in which most residents and businesses expressed support of the ordinance.

The Shoreline ordinance includes a mandatory taxable 5-cent fee for paper bags which is designed to encourage residents to bring reusable bags. Retailers will not be able to absorb that cost for customers.

Of course, some plastic bags will still be legal. The heavier duty plastic bags will still be allowed to be distributed as well as the bags used for bulk items and produce for purchase and dry-cleaning bags. Individuals using state assistance or WIC to purchase food are exempt from the regulations as well as food banks. Restaurants are also exempt.